Studied or learned Abroad? Here's where to start in Lithuania

Returning to Lithuania after studying abroad often raises an important question: How can you make use of the qualification you have earned? Depending on your plans, you may need academic recognition and/or professional recognition of your foreign qualification. SKVC provides guidance to help you navigate the process efficiently.

Determine Which Type of Recognition You Need

The first step is to identify the type of recognition required.

Academic recognition is intended for those who wish to continue their studies in Lithuania. It determines the level of the Lithuanian qualification to which your foreign qualification is comparable.

Professional recognition is required if you intend to practise a profession, particularly a regulated profession, such as medicine or teaching. Decisions on professional recognition are generally taken by the competent authorities, often based on recommendations provided by SKVC.

You May Not Need to Apply to SKVC

In some cases, you do not need to submit an application to SKVC.

If you plan to study at a specific Lithuanian higher education institution, that institution may be authorised to carry out the academic recognition of your foreign qualification itself. In such cases, you should submit your documents directly to the higher education institution, following its admission procedures. This is often the simplest and fastest option.

Prepare the Required Documents

The next step is to prepare your application.

The documents typically required include:

• your diploma or secondary school certificate;
• the diploma supplement or transcript of records showing the subjects studied and grades obtained;
• a copy of your identity document;
• where applicable, documents relating to previously obtained qualifications or a change of name.

If your documents are not in Lithuanian or English, you may also need to provide official translations.

Submit Your Application Online

Applications are submitted through the Electronic Recognition Area (EPE) at epe.skvc.lt, allowing the entire process to be completed online.

When submitting your application, make sure to upload high-quality colour scans of all required documents. You should also monitor the status of your application, as additional information or documents may be requested during the assessment.

Authentication of Documents

In some cases, your documents must be authenticated.

An Apostille certifies the authenticity of a public document under the Hague Convention. If your qualification was issued in a country that is not a party to the Convention, legalisation may be required instead.

However, for qualifications issued in many countries—particularly within the European Union—no additional authentication is required.

Receiving the Recognition Decision

Once all required documents have been submitted, a decision is normally issued within one month.

The recognition decision is signed electronically and delivered electronically. An electronically signed document has the same legal validity as a paper document bearing a handwritten signature.

After Recognition

Once your qualification has been recognised, you can use the recognition decision for its intended purpose, such as:

• applying for admission to a higher education institution;
• presenting it to an employer.

For regulated professions, you may also need to complete the relevant professional recognition procedure or obtain an authorisation to practise.

If you disagree with the recognition decision, you have the right to appeal.

In Summary

To ensure a smooth recognition process:

• determine which type of recognition you need;
• prepare all the required documents carefully;
• follow the established application procedures.

Taking these steps will help you make effective use of your qualification obtained abroad in Lithuania.

Further information on the recognition of foreign qualifications is available here.